Connector, electronic equipment using the connector and information processing unit

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

1. Field of the Invention

The present invention relates to connectors, electronic equipment, and information processing units, and more particularly to a connector installed on electronic equipment, the electronic equipment incorporating electronic components, for example, a storage medium such as a hard disk or a semiconductor memory, and attachable to and removable from a main apparatus such as a personal computer, and an information processing unit.

2. Description of the Related Art

A portable notebook-sized personal computer has been brought into practical use by small sizing and high performance formation of components.

Further, there have currently increased the number of people who own a desktop personal computer and the notebook-sized personal computer in an office, and a plurality of personal computers in homes. For that reason, there have occurred needs for intended to manage unitarily data stored in a hard disk in the personal computer, or for intended to carry data having a large capacity.

Furthermore, since a digital camera and a digital video camera have been used widely, data amounts of digital data have increased considerably, and there has occurred a problem that a storage capacity of the hard disk is liable to be filled with data immediately.

Meanwhile, the storage capacity of a hard disk has been rapidly increased every year, so that there has increased needs for intending to exchange an old hard disk having small storage capacity to a new hard disk having large storage capacity.

In order to meet these needs, there has been proposed a removable hard disk to be easily portable and easily exchangeable.

However, when the removable hard disk is removed from such as the personal computer, since a user manually performs attaching and removing the hard disk to/from the personal computer, if for some reason the hard disk should be detached from the personal computer during access, which might lead to such a possibility that data in the hard disk have been broken and the entire important data have been disappeared.

In addition, there is a request that the removable hard disk is automatically removed from such as the personal computer similar to that of a VTR cassette tape.

Consequently, in order to solve these problems and request, there has been proposed a mechanism (auto-loading mechanism) for automatically removing the removable hard disk by only pushing a switch.

However, in a removable hard disk apparatus, since there is exposed a connector portion for electrically connecting to a main frame apparatus such as the personal computer, there has been a concern that adhesion of dust and static electricity exert an adverse effect on data in a hard disk.

For that reason, although consideration is made on constitution for covering the connector portion by a shutter, in anyway, a method for realizing the auto-loading mechanism with simple constitution has been expected.

Further, it has been desired that a shutter be constituted so that it never opens unintentionally.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

It is an object of the present invention to realize a shutter for covering a connection portion of a connector with simple constitution.

Further, it is another object of the present invention to realize an auto-loading mechanism with simple constitution.

An electronic equipment of the present invention includes a container incorporating electronic components, and a connector electrically connected to the electronic components and arranged in a side portion of the container, and the electronic equipment is characterized by comprising: <ul id="ul0001" list-style="none"><li id="ul0001-0001" num="0000"><ul id="ul0002" list-style="none"><li id="ul0002-0001" num="0018">a protective portion movable between a first position and a second position in order to protect the connectors; and</li><li id="ul0002-0002" num="0019">lock portions for fixing the protective portion at the first position,</li><li id="ul0002-0003" num="0020">wherein the connector is connected to an exterior connector, whereby the lock portions are released, and the protective portion can be movable between the first position and the second position.</li></ul></li></ul>

Further, an information processing unit of the present invention is the information processing unit constructed of an electronic equipment incorporating electronic components, and a main body to which the electronic equipment is connected, the electronic equipment comprising: <ul id="ul0003" list-style="none"><li id="ul0003-0001" num="0000"><ul id="ul0004" list-style="none"><li id="ul0004-0001" num="0022">a first connector arranged on a side portion of a container electrically connected to the electronic components;</li><li id="ul0004-0002" num="0023">a protective portion movable between a first position and a second position, in order to protect the first connector; and</li><li id="ul0004-0003" num="0024">lock portions for fixing the protective portion to the first position,</li><li id="ul0004-0004" num="0025">the main body comprising a second connector connecting the first connector,</li><li id="ul0004-0005" num="0026">wherein the lock portions are released by connecting the first connector to the second connector, and the protective portion becomes movable between the first position and the second position.</li></ul></li></ul>

Furthermore, a connector of the present invention is the connector constructed of a first connector and a second connector which are attachable to and removable from each other, <ul id="ul0005" list-style="none"><li id="ul0005-0001" num="0000"><ul id="ul0006" list-style="none"><li id="ul0006-0001" num="0028">the first connector portion comprising: <ul id="ul0007" list-style="none"><li id="ul0007-0001" num="0029">a first connection portion electrically connected to the second connector portion;</li><li id="ul0007-0002" num="0030">a protective portion movable between a first position and a second position in order to protect the first connection portion;</li><li id="ul0007-0003" num="0031">guide portions provided on both sides of the first connector; and</li><li id="ul0007-0004" num="0032">lock portions for locking the protective portion to the first position,</li></ul></li><li id="ul0006-0002" num="0033">the second connector comprising: <ul id="ul0008" list-style="none"><li id="ul0008-0001" num="0034">a second connection portion for connecting to the first connection portion;</li><li id="ul0008-0002" num="0035">a first member for moving the protective portion from the first position to the second position; and</li><li id="ul0008-0003" num="0036">a second member for releasing the lock portions.</li></ul></li></ul></li></ul>

In addition, an auto-loading apparatus of the present invention comprising: <ul id="ul0009" list-style="none"><li id="ul0009-0001" num="0000"><ul id="ul0010" list-style="none"><li id="ul0010-0001" num="0038">an electronic equipment including a container incorporating electronic components, and a first connector electrically connected to the electronic components and arranged in a side portion of the container and attachable to and removable from a main body apparatus;</li><li id="ul0010-0002" num="0039">a second connector for electrically connecting to the first connector;</li><li id="ul0010-0003" num="0040">a connection means, one side thereof being electrically connected to the second connector, the other side thereof being connected to the electronic equipment on a main body side;</li><li id="ul0010-0004" num="0041">a first chassis in which, the electronic equipment is movable between a first position not connecting the first connector to the second connector, and a second position connecting the first connector to the second connector, and guide members are provided for guiding the first connector to the second connector;</li><li id="ul0010-0005" num="0042">a second chassis for guiding the first chassis; and</li><li id="ul0010-0006" num="0043">a moving means for moving the first chassis.</li></ul></li></ul>

Moreover, an auto-loading apparatus of the present invention comprising: <ul id="ul0011" list-style="none"><li id="ul0011-0001" num="0000"><ul id="ul0012" list-style="none"><li id="ul0012-0001" num="0045">a first chassis for holding a removable electronic equipment having a first connector;</li><li id="ul0012-0002" num="0046">a second chassis for holding the first chassis, and the first chassis being movable between a first position and a second position;</li><li id="ul0012-0003" num="0047">a second connector provided in the first chassis, and electrically connected to a first connector of the electronic equipment; and</li><li id="ul0012-0004" num="0048">a moving means for moving the first chassis between the first position and the second position.</li></ul></li></ul>

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 1A and 1B</figref> are perspective views of an electronic equipment and connectors according to the present embodiments,

<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 2</figref> is a perspective view showing a state where a shutter <b>12</b> is pushed (opened), in a state of having connected a connector <b>20</b> to a connector <b>30</b>,

<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 3</figref> is a side view of an electronic equipment <b>1</b>,

<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 4A and 4B</figref> are sectional views of an electronic equipment <b>1</b> in a state where a shutter <b>12</b> is locked by lock portions <b>14</b>,

<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 5A and 5B</figref> are sectional views of an electronic equipment <b>1</b> in states where lock portions <b>14</b> are released by lock releasing portions <b>22</b> or a connector <b>20</b>, and where a shutter <b>12</b> is opened.

<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 6</figref> is a perspective view of an electronic equipment and connectors according to a second embodiment,

<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 7A and 7B</figref> are plan views viewed, from above, an electronic equipment according to a second embodiment,

<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 8</figref> is a sectional view taken on line D—D in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 7B</figref>,

<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 9A and 9B</figref> are side views viewed, from a right side, an electronic equipment according to a second embodiment,

<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 10A and 10B</figref> are sectional views taken on line B—B in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 9A</figref>,

<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 11A and 11B</figref> are sectional views displaying lock release mechanism portions in a second embodiment,

<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 12A and 12B</figref> are sectional views displaying lock release mechanism portions in a second embodiment,

<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 13A and 13B</figref> are sectional views displaying lock release mechanism portions in a second embodiment,

<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 14A and 14B</figref> are perspective views of an electronic equipment and connectors according to a third embodiment,

<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 15A and 15B</figref> are plan views viewed, from above, an electronic equipment according to a third embodiment,

<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 16A and 16B</figref> are right side views of an electronic equipment according to a third embodiment,

<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 17A and 17B</figref> are sectional views taken on line B—B in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 16A</figref>,

<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 18A and 18B</figref> are sectional views displaying lock release mechanism portions in a third embodiment,

<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 19A and 19B</figref> are sectional views displaying lock release mechanism portions in a third embodiment,

<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 20A and 20B</figref> are sectional views displaying lock release mechanism portions in a third embodiment,

<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 21A and 21B</figref> are perspective views displaying a unit portion alone of a shutter <b>59</b>,

<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 22A and 22B</figref> are perspective views displaying a unit portion alone of a shutter <b>59</b>,

<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 23</figref> is a perspective view viewed, obliquely from the above and right, an auto-loading apparatus according to a fourth embodiment,

<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 24</figref> is a perspective view viewed, obliquely from the below and right, an auto-loading apparatus according to a fourth embodiment,

<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 25</figref> is a perspective view viewed, from a position similar to that of in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 23</figref>, an auto-loading apparatus, which is uncovered by removing parts of components residing above and below of the auto-loading apparatus according to a fourth embodiment,

<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 26</figref> is a perspective view viewed, from a position similar to that of in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 24</figref>, an auto-loading apparatus, which is uncovered by removing parts of components residing above and below of the auto-loading apparatus according to a fourth embodiment,

<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 27</figref> is a side view viewed, from a right side, an auto-loading apparatus in states shown in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 25 and 26</figref>,

<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 28</figref> is a plan view viewed, from above, an auto-loading apparatus in states shown in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 25 and 26</figref>,

<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 29</figref> is a perspective view viewed, obliquely from the above and right, a state where a removable hard disk according to a fourth embodiment is slightly inserted into an auto-loading apparatus,

<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 30</figref> is a perspective view viewed, obliquely from the above and right, a state where a removable hard disk is inserted into an auto-loading apparatus up to a connector, in a state shown in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 25 and 26</figref>,

<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 31</figref> is a perspective view viewed, obliquely from the below and right, an auto-loading apparatus in a state shown in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 30</figref>,

<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 32</figref> is a side view viewed, from a right side, an auto-loading apparatus in a state shown in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 30</figref>,

<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 33A and 33B</figref> are sectional views taken on line A—A in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 32</figref>,

<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 34</figref> is a perspective view viewed, obliquely from the above and right, in a state where a removable hard disk is set at inside of an auto-loading apparatus,

<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 35</figref> is a perspective view viewed, obliquely from the below and right, an auto-loading apparatus in a state shown in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 34</figref>,

<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 36</figref> is a side view, viewed from a right side, an auto-loading apparatus in a state shown in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 34</figref>,

<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 37A and 37B</figref> are sectional views taken on line C—C in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 36</figref>,

<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 38</figref> is a block diagram of an auto-loading apparatus according to a fourth embodiment,

<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 39</figref> is a flow chart for explaining an operation of an auto-loading apparatus when power is in an on-state,

<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 40</figref> is a flow chart for explaining an operation of an auto-loading apparatus from a standby state thereof up to a removable hard disk is drawn into the apparatus,

<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 41</figref> is a flow chart explaining an ejecting operation of a removable hard disk.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENT

Hereinafter, a first embodiment of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the drawings.

First Embodiment

<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 1A and 1B</figref> are perspective view of an electronic equipment and connectors according to the present embodiments.

In figure, <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 1A and 1B</figref> show the electronic equipment and the connectors viewed, from directions different from each other.

In figure, numeral <b>1</b> denotes an electronic equipment and it is constituted of a container <b>10</b> and a connector <b>30</b>, and a storage medium such as a hard disk and a semiconductor memory and electronic components for driving (reading and writing data) the storage medium are incorporated in inside of the container <b>10</b>. The connector <b>30</b> is freely attached to and removed from the container <b>10</b>, and is fixed to the container <b>10</b> by screws, vises, and a solder in a state installed on the container <b>10</b>.

Numeral <b>20</b> denotes a connector, the connector <b>20</b> is fixed to an information processing unit main body such as a personal computer, and the information processing unit main body transmits and receives data between it and the electronic equipment <b>1</b> by connecting the connector <b>20</b> to the connector <b>30</b>.

Recessed-shaped guides <b>31</b> are provided on both sides of the connector <b>30</b>, and the guides <b>31</b> are continuously linked to guides <b>13</b> provided on both sides of the container <b>10</b>.

The guides <b>31</b> and <b>13</b> are those for being supported by guide receiving portions provided at both ends of an installation portion of the information processing unit main body, and the installation portion is used for installing the electronic equipment <b>1</b>.

A connection portion <b>11</b> of the connector <b>30</b> is constituted to be covered by a shutter <b>12</b>, and the connection portion <b>11</b> and a connection portion <b>21</b> are constituted to be connected after the shutter <b>12</b> is pushed by the connection of the connector <b>20</b> to the connector <b>30</b>.

<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 2</figref> is a perspective view showing a state where the shutter <b>12</b> is pushed (opened) by the connector <b>20</b>, in a state of connecting the connector <b>30</b> to the connector <b>20</b>. Meanwhile, the connector <b>20</b> is not shown.

<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 3</figref> is a side view of the electronic equipment <b>1</b>.

As shown in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 1A</figref>, <b>1</b>B, and <b>3</b>, parts of lock portions <b>14</b> for locking the shutter <b>12</b> are exposed to outsides from aperture portions <b>15</b> of the guide portions <b>31</b> of the connector <b>30</b>.

The lock portions <b>14</b> are constituted by such a structure that in connecting the connector <b>30</b> to the connector <b>20</b>, locking is released when the lock portions <b>14</b> are pushed by lock-releasing portions <b>22</b> of the connector <b>20</b>, and the shutter <b>12</b> opens.

Further detailed explanation will be tried regarding the lock portions <b>14</b>.

<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 4A</figref>, <b>4</b>B, <b>5</b>A, and <b>5</b>B are sectional views of the electronic equipment <b>1</b>. <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 4A and 4B</figref> show a state where the shutter <b>12</b> is locked by the lock portions <b>14</b>. <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 5A and 5B</figref> show a state where the lock portions <b>14</b> are released by the lock-releasing portions <b>22</b> of the connector <b>20</b>, and the shutter is opened.

In a locking state, the shutter <b>12</b> is constituted to be in a closed state by springs <b>16</b>.

When the connector <b>20</b> is connected to the connector <b>30</b>, the lock portions <b>14</b> are pushed to insides by the lock-releasing portions <b>22</b>, and locking is released. Then, the shutter <b>12</b> is pushed by a projection portion on the periphery of the connection portion <b>21</b> of the connector <b>20</b>, the connection portion <b>11</b> is connected to the connection portion <b>21</b>, the electronic equipment <b>1</b> is electrically connected to the information processing unit main body, and information can be transmitted and received between an information processing unit and the electronic equipment <b>1</b>.

Meanwhile, in the present embodiment, when the electronic equipment <b>1</b> is installed on the information processing unit main body and the guide portions <b>13</b> and <b>31</b> are supported by the guide receiving portions of the information processing unit main body, although the lock portions <b>14</b> are slightly pushed by the guide receiving portions, the lock portions <b>14</b> are constituted such that the lock portions <b>14</b> are not pushed until a state where locking is completely detached.

When the connector <b>30</b> is removed from the connector <b>20</b> (when electronic equipment <b>1</b> is removed from information processing unit main body), as the connection portion <b>11</b> and the connection portion <b>21</b> are separated from each other, the shutter <b>12</b> having been pushed by the projection portion on the periphery of the connection portion <b>21</b> is returned by the force of the springs <b>16</b>, whereby, parts of the lock portions <b>14</b> are exposed from the aperture portions <b>15</b>, parts of the shutter <b>12</b> are exposed from the aperture portions <b>15</b> by a spring action of the shutter <b>12</b> itself, whereby the shutter <b>12</b> is brought into a state to be locked.

As described above, according to the present embodiment, a protection of a connector portion can be realized with a simple constitution.

Further, locking for protecting the connector portion can be realized with a simple constitution.

Furthermore, since a protective mechanism having a simple constitution is realized by using two kinds of springs, in addition to that, a lock mechanism is realized by providing aperture portions for the lock mechanism in the guide portions, a structure of the connector becomes simplified.

Second Embodiment

Next, a second embodiment of a lock mechanism of a shutter portion will be described.

<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 6</figref> is a perspective view of an electronic equipment and a connector according to the second embodiment. Meanwhile, portions of a connector <b>20</b> and a container <b>10</b> are similar to that of the first embodiment.

<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 7A</figref> is a plan view viewed (partially drawn in perspective), from above, the electronic equipment according to the second embodiment, <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 7B</figref> is an enlarged view of an A portion (partially drawn in perspective) in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 7A</figref>, and <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 8</figref> is a sectional view taken on line D—D in FIG. <b>7</b>B.

A connector <b>50</b> fitted with the connector <b>20</b> is provided in the container <b>10</b>, and a connection portion <b>11</b> of the connector <b>50</b> is covered by a shutter <b>53</b>. The shutter <b>53</b> is constituted such that the shutter <b>53</b> is pushed in a left direction (in direction concealing connection portion) in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 7A and 7B</figref>, by springs <b>16</b> inserted into shafts <b>50</b><i>d </i>integrally installed with the connector <b>50</b>, and the shutter <b>53</b> is not detached from inside of an connector <b>50</b> by stoppers <b>50</b><i>c</i>. The shutter <b>53</b> is made of resin, spring portions <b>53</b><i>c </i>are integrally installed with the shutter <b>53</b> on both sides thereof, and projection portions <b>53</b><i>b </i>are provided at tip portions of the spring portions <b>53</b><i>c</i>. In addition, claw portions <b>53</b><i>a </i>are formed on above and below in a thickness direction of the projection portions <b>53</b><i>b. </i>

As shown in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 8</figref>, aperture portions <b>50</b><i>b </i>are provided in grooves <b>31</b> of both sides of the connector <b>50</b> so that the projection portions <b>53</b><i>b </i>can move laterally as shown in FIG. <b>8</b>. Lock portions <b>50</b><i>a </i>are formed in parts of in above and below directions of the aperture portions <b>50</b><i>b</i>, and are constituted in such a positional relationship that in a free state of the spring portions <b>53</b><i>c</i>, the lock portions <b>50</b><i>a </i>are interfered with the claw portions <b>53</b><i>a. </i>

Next, the lock mechanism of the shutter <b>53</b> will be described in more detail.

<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 9A</figref> is a side view viewed, from right side, the electronic equipment according to the second embodiment, and <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 9B</figref> is an enlarged view of a C portion in FIG. <b>9</b>A. <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 10A</figref> is a sectional view taken on line B—B in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 9A</figref>, and <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 10B</figref> is an enlarged view of an E portion in FIG. <b>10</b>A.

As shown in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 9B and 10B</figref>, in a state where the connector <b>20</b> is not fitted with the connector <b>50</b>, since the projection portions <b>53</b><i>b </i>of the tip portions of the spring portions <b>53</b><i>c </i>are not pushed, even if the shutter <b>53</b> should be pushed in a right direction (in direction exposing connection portion) in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 10A</figref>, the claw portions <b>53</b><i>a </i>are caught by the lock portions <b>50</b><i>a </i>of the connector <b>50</b>, and the shutter <b>53</b> cannot move in a right direction.

Next, a case where the lock mechanism is released will be described.

<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 11A</figref> is a sectional view showing a state where tips of the lock releasing portions <b>22</b> of the connector <b>20</b> are inserted into the grooves <b>31</b> and the projection portions <b>53</b><i>b </i>are pushed inside of the connector <b>50</b>. <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 11B</figref> is an enlarged view of an I portion in FIG. <b>11</b>A. <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 12A</figref> displays a state where the connector <b>20</b> is further inserted into the connector <b>50</b>. <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 12B</figref> is an enlarged view of a G portion in FIG. <b>12</b>A. <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 13A</figref> displays a state where the connector <b>20</b> is completely inserted into the connector <b>50</b>, and <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 13B</figref> is an enlarged view of an H portion in FIG. <b>13</b>A.

As displayed in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 11B</figref>, <b>12</b>B, and <b>13</b>B, when the connector <b>20</b> is inserted into the connector <b>50</b>, the lock releasing portions <b>22</b> push the projection portion <b>53</b><i>b </i>to inside of the connector, whereby the spring portions <b>53</b><i>c </i>are deformed, the projection portions <b>53</b><i>b </i>are moved to the inside, and the integrally formed claw portions <b>53</b><i>a </i>are moved also to the inside. As is displayed in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 12B</figref>, since the claw portions <b>53</b><i>a </i>do not interfere with the lock portions <b>50</b><i>a </i>in this state, the shutter <b>53</b> moves in a right direction due to an insertion of the connector <b>20</b> into the connector <b>50</b>, and the connector <b>20</b> and the connector <b>50</b> are completely coupled to each other.

A case where the connector <b>20</b> is detached from the connector <b>50</b> is similar to the above-described. When the connectors are in a state to be inserted to each other, each of the lock releasing portions <b>22</b> move the projection portion <b>53</b><i>b </i>to an inside, since the claw portions <b>53</b><i>a </i>do not interfere with the lock portions <b>50</b><i>a</i>, the shutter <b>53</b> is pushed by the springs <b>16</b>, and moves together with the connector <b>20</b>, and stops after the projection portion <b>53</b><i>b </i>are collided with the stoppers <b>50</b><i>c. </i>

As described above, there are provided the aperture portions <b>50</b><i>b </i>for moving the projection portions <b>53</b><i>b </i>which are pushed by the lock releasing portions <b>22</b> in order to release locking of the shutter <b>53</b>, and a mechanism for locking the shutter <b>53</b> is provided in another location, which lead to a decrease in deformation of the spring portions <b>53</b><i>c</i>, therefore the possibility of a generation of creep caused by the deformation is decreased. In addition, the projection portions <b>53</b><i>b </i>are not brought into contact with an inner wall of the connector <b>50</b>, which leads to a decrease in a sliding load and can prevent abrasion of the inner wall.

Third Embodiment

In the first and also the second embodiment, an example where a shutter portion and lock portions being integrally formed with each other is described, however, as shown below, consideration can be made to constitute the shutter portion by a member separate from the lock portions. Hereinafter, the details thereof will be described with reference to the drawings.

<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 14A and 14B</figref> are perspective views, viewed from directions different from each other, of electronic equipment and connectors according to the third embodiment.

<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 15A</figref> is a plan view viewed (partially drawn in perspective), from above direction, the electronic equipment according to the third embodiment, <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 15B</figref> is an enlarged view of a J portion in FIG. <b>15</b>A. Further, <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 16A</figref> is a right side view of the electronic equipment according to the third embodiment, <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 16B</figref> is an enlarged view of a K portion in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 16A</figref>, <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 17A</figref> is a sectional view taken on line B—B in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 16A</figref>, and <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 17B</figref> is an enlarged view in a L portion in FIG. <b>17</b>A.

A container <b>10</b> is mounted with a connector <b>58</b> connecting to a connector <b>60</b>, and a connection portion <b>11</b> of the connector <b>58</b> is covered by a shutter <b>59</b>. The shutter <b>59</b> is pushed in a left direction in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 15A</figref> by springs <b>16</b> inserted into shafts <b>58</b><i>d </i>integrally installed with the connector <b>58</b>, and is constituted such that the shutter <b>59</b> is not detached from an inner portion of the connector <b>58</b> by stoppers <b>58</b><i>c. </i>

Next, a lock mechanism of the shutter <b>59</b> will be described in detail.

FIG. <b>21</b>A and <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 22A</figref> are perspective views displaying (partially drawn in perspective) a unit portion alone of the shutter <b>59</b>, and are displayed from directions different from each other. <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 21B</figref> is an enlarged view of a Q portion in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 21A</figref>, and <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 22B</figref> is an enlarged view of an R portion in FIG. <b>22</b>A.

The shutter <b>59</b> is provided with holes <b>59</b><i>g</i>, and shafts <b>61</b><i>c </i>of levers <b>61</b> are inserted. The levers <b>61</b> are integrally installed with projection portions <b>61</b><i>b </i>pushed by the lock releasing portions <b>22</b> and claw portions <b>61</b><i>a </i>for locking the shutter, further, slant faces <b>61</b><i>d </i>are formed on upper portions of the claw portions <b>61</b><i>a</i>. Further, shafts <b>59</b><i>f </i>are provided in the shutter <b>59</b>, and coil springs <b>62</b> are inserted into the shafts <b>59</b><i>f</i>. One side of a lever portion of each of the coil springs <b>62</b> is brought into pressure contact with a wall <b>59</b><i>e </i>integrally installed with the shutter <b>59</b>, and the other side thereof is brought into pressure contact with the lever <b>61</b>. As a result, the levers <b>61</b> are pushed such that the levers are rotated to outsides by making the shafts <b>61</b><i>c </i>as rotation center.

<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 18A</figref>, <b>19</b>A, and <b>20</b>A are sectional views displaying step by step in a state where the connector <b>60</b> is inserted into the connector <b>58</b> while pushing down the shutter <b>59</b>, <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 18B</figref> is an enlarged view of a M portion in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 18A</figref>, <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 19B</figref> is an enlarged view of a N portion in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 19A</figref>, and <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 20B</figref> is an enlarged view of a P portion in FIG. <b>20</b>A.

In a state as shown in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 17B</figref>, since the connector <b>60</b> is not inserted, a thrust direction of the shutter <b>59</b> is restricted in a state where the springs <b>16</b> push up the shutter <b>59</b>, and each of the lever <b>61</b> is run into the stopper <b>58</b><i>c </i>of the connector <b>58</b>. Although a direction of rotation of each of the levers <b>61</b> is pushed to the outside by the coil spring <b>62</b>, as shown in FIG. <b>17</b>B and <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 16B</figref>, the claw portion <b>61</b><i>a </i>strikes on a side face of inside of the connector <b>58</b>, so that a direction of rotation of each of the levers <b>61</b> is restricted. Even when the shutter <b>59</b> is pushed in this state, the claw portions <b>61</b><i>a </i>are caught by lock portions <b>58</b><i>a </i>and cannot slide into more inner portion than that.

<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 18A</figref> displays a state where although the lock releasing portions <b>22</b> of the connector <b>60</b> are brought into pressure contact with the projection portions <b>61</b><i>b</i>, and push down the levers <b>61</b> to insides of the connector <b>58</b>, the shutter <b>59</b> is not yet pushed down.

Further, <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 19A</figref> displays a state where the connector <b>60</b> is inserted into inside of the connector <b>58</b>, the claw portions <b>61</b><i>a </i>are not caught by the lock portions <b>58</b><i>a </i>and the shutter <b>59</b> continues sliding, and <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 20A</figref> displays a state where the connector <b>60</b> is completely inserted into the connector <b>58</b>.

Meanwhile, by any method, when the levers <b>61</b> of both sides are pushed to the insides, the shutter <b>59</b> is possible to be pushed down. Supposing that in a state where the shutter <b>59</b> is lowered in this manner, the levers <b>61</b> are made free, and further, the shutter <b>59</b> is also made free, the shutter <b>59</b> is pushed up upward, the levers <b>61</b> move upward while being pushed to wall sides of the connector <b>58</b>. Since the levers <b>61</b> move upward while being pushed to an inner wall of the connector <b>58</b>, the claw portions <b>61</b><i>a </i>and the lock portions <b>58</b><i>a </i>are interfered with each other. However, slant faces <b>61</b><i>d </i>are formed on upper portions of the claw portions <b>61</b><i>a </i>of the levers <b>61</b>, and since slant faces <b>58</b><i>d </i>are formed also in the lock portions <b>58</b><i>a</i>, when the levers <b>61</b> strike the lock portions <b>58</b><i>a</i>, the levers <b>61</b> rotate to the insides, climb over the lock portions <b>58</b><i>a</i>, and until the projection portions <b>61</b><i>b </i>strike the stoppers <b>58</b><i>c </i>the shutter <b>59</b> moves upward.

Furthermore, the connector <b>60</b> is soldered to a printed wiring board <b>55</b>, the connector <b>60</b> is provided with stepped holes <b>60</b><i>a </i>so as to escape from shafts <b>58</b><i>d</i>. In addition, holes are provided also in the printed wiring board <b>55</b> at positions corresponding to the stepped holes <b>60</b><i>a</i>, and by using these holes, the connector <b>60</b> and the printed wiring board <b>55</b> are constituted so that they are powerfully fixed to each other by the screws <b>56</b> and nuts <b>57</b>.

In the present embodiment, the printed wiring board <b>55</b> is fixed to the connector <b>60</b> by bringing the nuts <b>57</b> into contact with the printed wiring board <b>55</b> side, however, it is not objectionable to fix the printed wiring board <b>55</b> by bringing heads of the screw <b>56</b> into contact with the printed wiring board <b>55</b> side. Moreover, the nuts <b>55</b> may be previously insert molded into the holes <b>60</b><i>a. </i>

Alternatively, by using self-tapping screws having outer diameters slightly larger than inner diameters of the holes <b>60</b><i>a</i>, and they are screwed from the printed wiring board <b>55</b> side, then it is unnecessary to use the nuts <b>57</b>, whereby cost can also be reduced.

Fourth Embodiment

Next, an auto-loading apparatus in an information processing unit (such as personal computer) using above described electronic equipment (removable hard disk) will be described.

<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 23 and 24</figref> are perspective views viewed, obliquely from the above and right, and from the below and right, a removable hard disk <b>1</b> and an auto-loading apparatus <b>5</b> of the removable hard disk according to the present embodiment. Meanwhile, the auto-loading apparatus <b>5</b> is provided on such as the personal computer, and FIG. <b>23</b> and <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 24</figref> are views showing a part of the personal computer (hereinafter referred to as PC) and the auto-loading apparatus <b>5</b>.

In <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 23 and 24</figref>, numeral <b>1</b> denotes a removable hard disk, and is constituted of a top case <b>2</b>, a bottom case <b>3</b> and a connector <b>4</b>. In addition, such as a cushioning material for absorbing impact, a hard disk, a flexible printed board are incorporated in inside thereof. Meanwhile, these are all well known generally, therefore detailed explanation will be omitted.

Numeral <b>5</b> denotes an auto-loading apparatus of removable hard disk <b>1</b>, and is constituted of such as a frame <b>6</b>, a palette <b>7</b>, and a pulse motor <b>8</b>. Numeral <b>9</b> denotes a part of a main PCB such as PC for controlling such as the removable hard disk or auto-loading apparatus, and mounted with such as a CPU <b>135</b> which will be described later. Meanwhile, the removable hard disk has a structure as has explained in the first through the third embodiments described above.

<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 25 and 26</figref> are perspective views (partially cut model) viewed, from the same direction as in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 23 and 24</figref>, the apparatus which are opened an upper portion of the frame <b>6</b> of the auto-loading apparatus <b>5</b> for the removable hard disk <b>1</b> displayed in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 23 and 24</figref>, further also opened a lower portion of the palette <b>7</b>. <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 27</figref> is a side view viewed, from a right side, the state described above, and <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 28</figref> is a plan view (partially cut model) viewed, from the above, the state described above.

Grooves <b>111</b> linked to those of the connector <b>4</b> are provided on left and right sides of the removable hard disk <b>1</b>, and lock grooves <b>111</b><i>a </i>and <b>1111</b><i>b </i>are provided in a direction at right angle to the grooves <b>111</b>. Oval shaped projection portions <b>112</b><i>a</i>, <b>112</b><i>b</i>, and <b>112</b><i>c </i>are provided on left and right sides of an inside of the palette <b>7</b> for the auto-loading apparatus <b>5</b> so as to be fitted with the grooves <b>111</b>, and the removable hard disk <b>1</b> is inserted into inside of the auto-loading apparatus <b>5</b> along the projection portions <b>112</b><i>a</i>, <b>112</b><i>b</i>, and <b>112</b><i>c. </i>

Projection portions <b>114</b> are provided on left and right sides of outsides of the palette <b>7</b>, and slidably inserted into grooves <b>115</b> provided on left and right sides of inside of the frame <b>6</b>. Further, a mounting plate <b>116</b> is integrally installed with the pallet <b>7</b> on a bottom surface thereof, and a bearing <b>117</b> is press-fitted into the mounting plate <b>116</b>. Meanwhile, a projection portion <b>117</b><i>a </i>is provided in the bearing <b>117</b> in order to receive force in a radial direction.

A mounting plate <b>118</b> is integrally installed with the frame <b>6</b> on a bottom surface of the frame <b>6</b>, and a pulse motor <b>8</b> is fixed to the mounting plate <b>118</b> by screws <b>219</b>.

The pulse motor <b>8</b> is constituted such that a lead screw shaft <b>8</b><i>a </i>functions as an axis of rotation, when the shaft <b>8</b><i>a </i>rotates counter clockwise, viewed from a direction of the shaft <b>8</b><i>a</i>, the shaft <b>8</b><i>a </i>is engaged with the bearing <b>217</b> so that the palette <b>7</b> moves closer to the pulse motor <b>8</b>.

In <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 28</figref>, shafts <b>121</b> are provided on left and right of upper portion of the palette <b>7</b>, claws <b>120</b> are rotatably inserted into both shafts <b>121</b>, and the claws <b>120</b> are energized in a manner to open to outsides by springs <b>122</b> inserted into the shafts <b>121</b>.

In addition, a connector <b>123</b> electrically connected to the connector <b>4</b> of the removable hard disk <b>1</b> is provided on an upper portion of the palette <b>7</b>, and the connector <b>123</b> is rigidly fixed to the palette <b>7</b> by the screws <b>124</b> and nuts <b>125</b>. The connector <b>123</b> is soldered to a PCB <b>126</b>, and electrically coupled to each other. Moreover, the connector <b>123</b> is mechanically firmly fixed (refer to <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 33A and 33B</figref>) to the PCB <b>126</b> by screws <b>127</b> and nuts <b>128</b> using stepped holes <b>123</b><i>a </i>provided in the connector <b>123</b>.

A connector <b>129</b> for flexible cable is soldered on a rear face of the PCB <b>126</b>, and one end of a flexible cable <b>130</b> is inserted into the connector <b>129</b> to be electrically coupled to each other. The other end of the flexible cable <b>130</b> is inserted into a connector <b>131</b> soldered to a main PCB <b>9</b>. Further, a switch <b>132</b> which detects complete coupling of the removable hard disk <b>1</b> to the connector <b>123</b> is soldered to the PCB <b>126</b>. Meanwhile the pulse motor <b>8</b> is electrically coupled to the PCB <b>9</b> by a lead wire and connector not shown. According to a constitution described above, the removable hard disk <b>1</b> is possible to transmit and receive data between itself and such as the CPU <b>135</b> mounted on the main PCB <b>9</b> via the connector <b>4</b>, connector <b>123</b>, connector <b>129</b>, flexible cable <b>130</b>, and connector <b>131</b>.

Next, with regard to the auto-loading apparatus <b>5</b> having above-described constitution, actual operation will be described in detail. Meanwhile, following control is carried out by control of the CPU <b>135</b>.

<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 38</figref> is a block diagram of the auto-loading apparatus <b>5</b>, and <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 39</figref> is a flow chart displaying an operation of auto-loading apparatus <b>5</b> when power <b>136</b> is in an ON state.

In the present embodiment, the pulse motor <b>8</b> is constituted in setting to drive it to rotate clockwise 15.5 rotations in order to move the palette <b>7</b> from a state where the palette <b>7</b> is moved to a striking portion on a side of the pulse motor <b>8</b> to a state where the removable hard disk is not installed (refer to FIGS. <b>23</b> and <b>24</b>). Further, the pulse motor <b>8</b> is constituted in setting to drive it to rotate clockwise 0.5 rotations, in order to move the palette <b>7</b> from a state where it is moved to striking portions on the side of the pulse motor <b>8</b> to a state (refer to <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 34 and 35</figref>) where the removable hard disk is drawn into the apparatus. Accordingly, even when the palette <b>7</b> stays in any position, by driving the pulse motor <b>8</b> to rotate counter clockwise 16 rotations, the palette <b>7</b> can move to the striking portion.

At step <b>101</b>, when power is in the ON state by an instruction from a user, at step <b>102</b> pulses are sent so that the pulse motor <b>8</b> is driven to rotate counter clockwise 16 rotations by an order from the CPU <b>135</b>. Even when the palette <b>7</b> stays in any position, the palette <b>7</b> runs into a striking on a side of the connector <b>123</b> by this driving, and the pulse motor <b>8</b> stops while losing synchronism.

Next, at step <b>103</b>, it is determined whether the switch <b>132</b> is ON or OFF (it is same as to determine whether removable hard disk <b>1</b> is inserted or not). When the switch <b>132</b> is ON, the process proceeds to step <b>105</b>, after driving the pulse motor <b>8</b> to rotate clockwise 0.5 rotations, the process proceeds to step <b>106</b>, and it become a state where access is possible from such as the CPU <b>135</b> to the removable hard disk <b>1</b>. When the switch <b>132</b> is OFF, the process proceeds to step <b>104</b>, the pulse motor <b>8</b> is driven to rotate clockwise 15.5 rotations, and after proceeding to step <b>107</b>, initial processing after power is turned on, is finished, and process is brought into stand-by state.

In following description, a case where the process proceeds to stand-by state at step <b>107</b> will be described.

<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 29</figref> is a perspective view viewed, obliquely from the above and right, a state where the removable hard disk <b>1</b> is slightly inserted into the auto-loading apparatus <b>5</b>. The grooves <b>111</b> provided on a side face of the removable hard disk <b>1</b> are fitted with the projection portions <b>112</b><i>a </i>and <b>112</b><i>b </i>provided in the palette <b>7</b>. At this time, a positional relationship between the palette <b>7</b> and the frame <b>5</b> remains in the stand-by state, and a detection portion <b>132</b><i>a </i>of the switch <b>132</b> is also in a free state.

<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 40 and 41</figref> are flow charts for explaining an operation of the auto-loading apparatus <b>5</b> from a stand-by state at step <b>107</b> up to the removable hard disk <b>1</b> is drawn into the apparatus.

At step <b>108</b>, when the switch turns in an ON state, the process proceeds to step <b>109</b> and is brought into stand-by state for 0.5 second. Next, the process proceeds to step <b>110</b>, and again determines whether the switch <b>132</b> is ON or OFF. In the case of OFF, the process is brought into stand-by state at step <b>107</b>. In the case of ON, the process proceeds to step <b>111</b>, the pulse motor <b>8</b> is driven to rotate counter clockwise 15 rotations, next, the process proceeds to step <b>106</b>, and it becomes a state possible to access to the removable hard disk <b>1</b>.

Next, a state described above will be explained in detail with reference to mechanical drawings.

<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 30</figref>, <b>31</b>, <b>32</b>, <b>33</b>A and <b>33</b>B display states where the removable hard disk is inserted into the auto-loading apparatus <b>5</b> by a user, and the connector <b>4</b> is completely inserted into the connector <b>123</b>. FIG. <b>30</b> is a perspective view viewed, obliquely from the above and right, the state, <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 31</figref> is a perspective view viewed, obliquely from the below and right, the state, <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 32</figref> is a side view viewed, from right side, the state, <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 33A</figref> is a sectional view taken on line A—A in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 32</figref>, and <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 33B</figref> is a detailed view in a B portion in FIG. <b>33</b>A. Meanwhile, in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 33A</figref> components in an inner portion of the removable hard disk <b>1</b> is omitted.

The connector <b>4</b> of the removable hard disk <b>1</b> and the connector <b>123</b> are completely coupled to each other, at this time, the detection portion <b>132</b><i>a </i>of the switch <b>132</b> is brought into a completely pushed state (ON state). Further, since the pulse motor <b>8</b> is not started its rotation in this state, the positional relationship between the frame <b>6</b> and the palette <b>7</b> remains in a stand-by state (initial state).

Here explained is a detail with regard to a detection of the switch <b>132</b>.

Length (contact length) from starting electrical coupling of the connector <b>123</b> to the connector <b>4</b> to completely run into each other, is 5 mm ±0.3 mm in this embodiment. The switch <b>132</b> is mounted so that it is turned on after starting the electrical connection between the connector <b>123</b> and the connector <b>4</b>, when they are inserted mutually in an amount of 3 mm. An installation error for each of the connector <b>123</b> and the switch <b>132</b> is ±0.3 mm. Further, an error of ON timing of a switch is also ±0.3 mm. Accordingly, even in consideration of the worst state, unless the connector <b>123</b> is electrically coupled to the connector <b>4</b>, the switch <b>32</b> is never turned ON. In addition, as long as the connector <b>123</b> is inserted into the connector <b>4</b> until they run into each other, the switch <b>132</b> is constituted in a manner to become an ON state positively.

In <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 33A</figref>, the claws <b>120</b> are pushed to both inside directions of the frame <b>6</b> by the springs <b>122</b>, and run into the projection portions <b>134</b> provided on the palette <b>7</b>. Accordingly, in this state, claw tip portions <b>120</b><i>a </i>are not inserted into the lock grooves <b>111</b><i>a </i>provided on both sides of the removable hard disk <b>1</b>. Therefore in this state, the removable hard disk <b>1</b> can easily be detached.

Next, when the CPU <b>135</b> determines that the switch <b>132</b> is turned ON, at 0.5 second after determination, the CPU <b>135</b> gives instruction to the pulse motor <b>8</b> to drive to rotate counter clockwise 15 rotations viewed from the shaft <b>8</b><i>a </i>side. Since a pitch of the lead screw shaft <b>8</b><i>a </i>is 2 mm, when the pulse motor <b>8</b> rotates counter clockwise 15 rotations, the palette <b>7</b> moves forward to a direction of the pulse motor <b>8</b> in an amount of 30 mm and stops. At this time, since the connector <b>4</b> and the connector <b>123</b> are coupled to each other, the removable hard disk <b>1</b> moves forward in an amount of 30 mm to the pulse motor <b>8</b> direction together with the palette <b>7</b>, and the palette is drawn into inside of the auto-loading apparatus <b>5</b>.

<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 34</figref>, <b>35</b>, <b>36</b>, <b>37</b>A, and <b>37</b>B all display states where the removable hard disk <b>1</b> is drawn in an amount of 30 mm into inside of the auto-loading apparatus <b>5</b> together with the palette <b>7</b>. <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 34</figref> is a perspective view viewed, obliquely from the above and right, that state, <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 35</figref> is a perspective view viewed, from the below and right, the state, <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 36</figref> is a side view viewed, from right side, the state, <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 37A</figref> is a sectional view taken on line C—C in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 36</figref>, and <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 37B</figref> is a detailed view in a D portion in FIG. <b>37</b>A. Meanwhile, in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 37A and 37B</figref>, inside components of the removable hard disk <b>1</b> are omitted similar to those in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 33A and 33B</figref>.

The projection portions <b>114</b> of the palette <b>7</b> move 30 mm along the grooves <b>115</b> by rotating the pulse motor <b>8</b> counter clockwise 15 rotations and stops. In this state, as shown in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 37B</figref>, since the projection portions <b>120</b><i>b </i>of the claws <b>120</b> run onto the projection portions <b>133</b> inside of the frame <b>6</b>, the claws <b>120</b> rotate more inside than that of a stand-by state (initial state), the tip portions <b>120</b><i>a </i>of the claws <b>120</b> are inserted into the lock grooves <b>111</b><i>a</i>. Accordingly, in this state, the removable hard disk <b>1</b> cannot be extracted from the palette <b>7</b>. Further, the palette <b>7</b> is engaged with the lead screw shaft <b>8</b><i>a </i>by the bearing <b>117</b>. Consequently, even when force in a extracting direction is applied to the removable hard disk <b>1</b> or the palette <b>7</b>, since the pulse motor <b>8</b> does not rotate, the palette <b>7</b> cannot move along the grooves <b>115</b>. As the result, in this state, the removable hard disk <b>1</b> is positively fixed, and it becomes possible to access to the removable hard disk <b>1</b>.

Next explained is an ejecting operation of the removable hard disk <b>1</b>.

<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 41</figref> is a flow chart explaining the ejecting operation of the removable hard disk <b>1</b>.

At step <b>113</b>, when an ejection order is given, the process proceeds to step <b>114</b> and determines an ON/OFF state of the switch <b>132</b>. In case of OFF the process is brought into a stand-by state at step <b>107</b>, in case of ON, the process proceeds to step <b>115</b>, and it is determined whether the removable hard disk <b>1</b> is in an access state. Meanwhile, the ejection order can be given from the PC side by instruction using a keyboard or a mouse, not shown, by a user, or, by pushing an eject button not shown.

A case where it is during an access from the PC side, the process proceeds to step <b>116</b> and stops the access, and again, returns at step <b>115</b>. If not during access, the process proceeds to step <b>117</b>, and the pulse motor <b>8</b> is driven to rotate clockwise 15 rotations. Thereby, the palette <b>7</b> moves 30 mm in a direction separated from the pulse motor <b>8</b>, and the process proceeds to step <b>107</b> and is brought into stand-by state.

This state is the state displayed in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 33A and 33B</figref>, therefore, the removable hard disk <b>1</b> can be removed from the auto-loading apparatus <b>5</b>.

Hitherto, as explained in detail, according to the present embodiment, an automatic loading mechanism of the removable hard disk can be realized with simple constitution, therefore, breakage of the hard disk by ejecting during access to the removable hard disk can be prevented, and operability by the user is also improved.

Further, the auto-loading apparatus can be realized with very simple configuration, with reliable locking which can be performed during installation of the removable hard disk, moreover, with positive electric connection, and with considerably improved reliability.

Furthermore, as the apparatus is constituted by a two layer structure of the frame and the palette, and as a lock mechanism is provided on the palette for locking the hard disk reliably, there is increased the certainty during installation.